The skating world is still reeling from the news of the sudden demise of Kazahk figure skater and Winter Olympics Bronze Medalist Denis Ten, who was stabbed to death in the streets of Almaty after foiling an attempted theft. He was only 25 years old.

Denis shares a special association with the anime series “Yuri!!! ON ICE“, since he was the basis for Otabek Altin — who was likewise a Kazahk figure skater, and one of the show’s most popular characters. He has also publicly supported the series, often tweetingabout it on social media.

The staff of “Yuri!!! ON ICE” — including Director Saya Yamamoto, Writer Mitsurou Kubo, Character Designer Tadashi Hiramatsu, and Key Animator Eiji Abiko gave tribute to the courageous young skater, who touched the hearts of fans not just in Kazahkstan but also all over the world.

I'm still having a difficult time accepting this tragedy.Had I never encountered Denis Ten's skating, "Yuri!!!" would not be what it is today.Denis's skating was truly one of a kind and he has gifted us with so much inspiration.Respect. Always and forever.